Primary amyloidoma in epidural and paravertebral space of the lumbar spine

Background contextLocalized amyloid deposits result in a mass, that is, so-called amyloidoma; it has been reported in every anatomic site, although systemic amyloid deposition is much more common. However, primary lumbar epidural amyloidoma without bony involvement is extremely rare. To the best of our knowledge, only one case has been reported previously.PurposeTo report and review the clinical presentations, imaging studies, and treatment of epidural and paravertebral amyloidoma.Study designA case report and review of the literature.MethodsLumbar epidural and paravertebral amyloidoma in a 75-year-old man with neurologic compromise is presented. Laminectomy with mass resection was performed.ResultsAfter surgery, almost complete neurologic improvement was observed. Histologically, definite diagnosis was obtained only after the specific staining of tissue. No sign of local recurrence was evident 1 year after surgery.ConclusionsPrimary amyloidoma, although rare, should be included in the differential diagnosis of epidural mass of the spine. Diagnosis before surgery is difficult as there were no characteristic findings in clinical and imaging studies. Special histologic technique and stains are useful to make a definite diagnosis.